Category Archives: Society

The Latest news about what is effecting Society in North America, These PR articles, bring the newest technologies, initiatives and helpful tools to those who need them.

for those who do not believe, for those who need their belief encouraged” is an inspiring spiritual reflection of God


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“glimpses: for those who do not believe, for those who need their belief encouraged”: a heartfelt celebration of God’s work within creation. “glimpses: for those who do not believe, for those who need their belief encouraged” is the creation of published author Stephen Giordano.

Giordano shares, “have you ever longed to catch a glimpse of GOD’S greatness, HIS mercy and forgiveness? Even a small glimpse can alter your life for the better and forever.

“This book is but a small sample of those glimpses. This was not a onetime endeavor but represents a lifetime journey from young adulthood into later retirement years. My heart’s desire is to share glimpses of what GOD has given me along my journey of faith and maybe cause you to come closer to GOD.

“As you read, take your time to pause and reflect, place aside and come back when you are ready. In so doing, you may catch your own glimpse of what GOD wants to show you—a glimpse of those things for which your spirit longs.”

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Stephen Giordano’s new book will encourage and empower others in their spiritual journey.

Giordano shares in hopes of helping others to achieve a sense of fulfillment and comfort through God’s grace.

Consumers can purchase “glimpses: for those who do not believe, for those who need their belief encouraged” at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about “glimpses: for those who do not believe, for those who need their belief encouraged,” contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.

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Episcopal Relief & Development Receives Grant from Conrad N. Hilton Foundation to Expand Early Childhood Development Work


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“We are grateful for the continued partnership of the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation and its commitment to early childhood development,” said Geraldine Sicola, Director of Early Childhood Development, Episcopal Relief & Development.

Episcopal Relief & Development has received a $3 million grant from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation to grow the organization’s Moments That Matter® early childhood development program partnership in Kenya and start up the program in the Nampula Province of Mozambique.

“We are extremely grateful for the continued partnership of the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation and its commitment to early childhood development and vulnerable children up to age 3, especially in our Moments That Matter® program,” said Geraldine Sicola, Director of Early Childhood Development, Episcopal Relief & Development. “This generous 32-month grant will support the program’s expansion into the Western Region of Kenya and formalize our new partnership in Mozambique.”

Since 2012, Moments That Matter® (MTM) has been mobilizing communities and empowering caregivers in Africa so that vulnerable children reach their full developmental potential. The program, which is Episcopal Relief & Development’s flagship integrated early childhood development partnership, is a community-led approach based on the Nurturing Care Framework.

Local partners such as Anglican Development Services-Nyanza (ADS-Nyanza) and the Anglican Diocese of Nampula equip volunteers, faith leaders and local stakeholders while empowering caregivers with parenting knowledge and skills, thereby helping children reach their cognitive, language, social, emotional and physical developmental milestones.

Earlier investments from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation contributed to the program’s growth through monitoring, evaluation and research combined with learning and adaptation processes between 2012-2021. Most recently the Hilton Foundation’s support funded an implementation research study, led by the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC) from 2018 to 2021, as well as additional work in Kenya and Zambia.

In Kenya, this new grant will support and strengthen the capacity of existing MTM infrastructure while expanding into two new counties and supporting program evaluation. In Mozambique, this grant will support Episcopal Relief & Development’s onboarding of a new partner, the Anglican Diocese of Nampula, to launch the MTM Program in Monapo County.

“More vulnerable children will now receive care that supports their health and development,” said Priscilla Amuah, Senior Program Officer, Episcopal Relief & Development. “Children and their families are much better served when we work within the family unit and share essential parenting practices which family members can easily adopt.”

In total, this two-country project will support close to 10,000 Primary Caregivers and over 11,800 children between the ages of 0 and 3. Learn more about Episcopal Relief & Development’s integrated early childhood development programs here.

ABOUT EPISCOPAL RELIEF & DEVELOPMENT

For over 80 years, Episcopal Relief & Development has been working together with supporters and partners for lasting change around the world. Each year the organization facilitates healthier, more fulfilling lives for close to 3 million people struggling with hunger, poverty, disaster and disease. Inspired by Jesus’ words in Matthew 25, Episcopal Relief & Development leverages the expertise and resources of Anglican and other partners to deliver measurable and sustainable change in three signature program areas: Women, Children and Climate.

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Firefly Autism Earns Certified Neurodiversity Workplace™ Designation to Promote a More Inclusive Work Environment


Firefly Autism

“Firefly believes in the true value of every individual, no matter what. Understanding and championing neurodiversity fosters inclusivity and diverse perspectives, allows for unique experiences and interactions, and helps reduce stigmas around thinking and learning differences.”

Firefly Autism has earned the Certified Neurodiversity Workplace™(CNW) designation granted by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). The program is designed to help leaders and teams better hire, retain, and work effectively with neurodivergent workers, including those with autism, ADHD, and dyslexia.

Neurodiversity inclusion in the workplace is becoming a focus for organizations looking to attract, hire and retain talent for a variety of positions and industries. Neurodivergent individuals, which includes professionals with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and other unique abilities, have a different way of thinking than neurotypical individuals. Organizations that utilize inclusive hiring and management practices, which can include staff training, accommodations, and updated policies and procedures, can better manage and nurture existing staff and attract the talent organizations need to stay competitive, increase effectiveness, and promote innovation.

“Firefly believes in the true value of every individual, no matter what. Understanding and championing neurodiversity fosters inclusivity and diverse perspectives, allows for unique experiences and interactions, and helps reduce stigmas around thinking and learning differences,” said Dr. Amanda Kelly, Executive Director and CEO of Firefly Autism. “This certification program is just another step in our journey to take action in our promotion of a neurodiverse workplace and to raise our awareness and education.”

Firefly Autism is dedicated to working with autistic individuals from 18 months to adulthood, offering personalized learning, support, and solutions. This additional training and certification will advance team members’ skills in the workplace and with the individuals they serve.

“We’re excited to work with Firefly Autism as they focus on inclusion to ensure their workplace is welcoming, effective and successful, ,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman.

For more than 20 years, IBCCES has been a leader in cognitive disorder training and certification for healthcare, education, and corporate professionals around the globe. IBCCES programs include evidence-based content and the perspectives of autistic individuals, alongside other resources, ongoing support, and renewal requirements to ensure continued learning and a lasting impact.

IBCCES also created CertifiedAutismCenter.com, as a free online resource that lists certified locations and professionals. Each organization listed on the site has met Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) or Certified Neurodiversity Workplace™ (CNW) requirements.

Firefly Autism is now hiring! Both part-time and full-time opportunities are available in Denver and Colorado Springs, including home-based and center-based Behavior Technicians, Behavior Analysts and Program Instructors, with exciting opportunities within community programs and partnerships. Firefly Autism provides its team with training, additional education and scholarship opportunities. To learn more about Firefly Autism and its current job openings, please visit http://www.fireflyautism.org or contact Nicole Abunassar at nicole@nkgroupe.com.

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About Firefly Autism

Firefly Autism is dedicated to celebrating the lives of individuals on the autism spectrum through learning, support, and solutions. We achieve this by building innovative, individualized programs and cultivating meaningful, impactful relationships with individuals, families, and communities we serve. For nearly 20 years, we have been changing the landscape of behavioral and mental health. Working with individuals from 18 months to over 70-years of age, we are one of the few places in Colorado where everyone, including adults, are not only welcome, but are also receiving support. With collaboration from families and other providers, we deliver services through individualized behavioral plans and instructional goals that meet the client’s interests, values, and support needs. At Firefly Autism, we believe in using the principles of assent-based and values-based practices to ensure a person-centered approach to Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy.

About IBCCES

Delivering The Global Standard for Training and Certification in The Field of Cognitive Disorders – IBCCES provides a series of certifications that empower professionals to be leaders in their field and improve the outcomes for the individuals they serve. These programs are recognized around the world as the leading benchmark for training and certification in the areas of autism and other cognitive disorders.

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New Holistic Bible Study Pieces Together Science and The Bible


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“I hope is that this new book and its holistic approach will help my readers have renewed excitement studying the word of God” Andre said.

The Bible fills each page with stories but, like a gigantic puzzle, readers may never see the overall picture it displays without the work. When studying the Bible, readers may begin to see the picture assembled or, in other words, the puzzle pieces coming together to reflect an elegant image of Jesus Christ.

Therefore, author Wayne A. Andre wrote “The Picture in the Puzzle.” This work contains over 100 original diagrams and explanations that show the many ways the Bible can be understood as a single, consistent, and expanding story.

“I hope is that this new book and its holistic approach will help my readers have renewed excitement studying the word of God,” Andre said.

Andre urges his readers to reach, communicate, develop, and discuss how to understand the Bible and the Christian faith through his Bible study.

“I wish to see my Bible study increase the quality and quantity in the world and that my readers may follow their study as an exciting and rewarding experience,” Andre said.

“The Picture in the Puzzle: This Information Scientist Trusts the God of the Bible”

By Wayne A. Andre

ISBN: 9781664257405 (softcover); 9781664257412 (hardcover); 9781664257399 (electronic)

Available at: WestBow Press, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble

About the author

Wayne Andre has been an elder, Bible study leader, and Christian ministries team leader for 30 years in two Christian mega-churches. Wayne has an educational background in Engineering, physics, finance, accounting, statistics, and information science. He had a 30-year career in information science in several Fortune 500 companies. Andre resides in Greenwood, Ind. with his wife of over 50 years and is the father of two children and four grandchildren. To learn more, please visit: https://www.westbowpress.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/821349-the-picture-in-the-puzzle

General Inquiries:            

LAVIDGE – Phoenix                        

Taylor Moralez

480-306-6597

tmoralez@lavidge.com

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They Make Me” is a compelling narrative of abusive memories, joy, forgiveness and success


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Dr. Yolanda Fleurantin, Ph.D, a proud family matriarch from Haiti who celebrated a successful career in psychology, has completed her new book “Words Don’t Hurt Me: They Make Me”: a gripping reflection of her life from trauma to success.

Fleurantin shares, “a traumatic childhood experience causes a failed relationship with my parents and most of my siblings. When those who were supposed to nurture you, provide for you, love you, guide you, take care of you, make you feel comfortable instead choose otherwise and disappoint you, the end results can lead to destruction, shame, low self-esteem and/or failure.

‘The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace’ (Exodus 14:14).

The power of choice and having dreams had kept me going, kept me alive. While it is common to find people fixated on their history, the past, or on what other people had done to them, or said about them, none of these will really help you move forward. The good news for me is that my life has taught me a lot. Although there were plenty of things I could not control—like my parents’ anger, the slapping, the beatings, the whooping, the pulling, the name-calling, the putting me down in front of others—I always find strength to remain in a standing position. I had always tried to choose what next best thing for me to do. I had also tried to heal those internal wounds by reading self-help books. By doing so, I had learned better ways to cope and deal with issues, learn to love, appreciate, respect, forgive, and deal with my siblings in a less emotional way. I also know that life will take the meaning that you give to it.

I sometimes feel cheated by my parents. I especially think that way because one of the things that children do is to teach their parents, challenge them, and expand their lives. An opportunity or a time in my life I had never lived or even experienced. It all seems like a story of unfinished sentences, of suppressed embraces, of almost belonging, of stammered affection.”

Published by Page Publishing, Dr. Yolanda Fleurantin, Ph.D’s captivating tale provides hope and guidance for those in similar situations to her own, that when they become parents themselves they can learn and grow from their own traumas to provide the life for their children that they had always wanted.

Readers who wish to experience this inspiring work can purchase “Words Don’t Hurt Me: They Make Me” at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes Store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or media inquiries, contact Page Publishing at 866-315-2708.

About Page Publishing:

Page Publishing is a traditional, full-service publishing house that handles all the intricacies involved in publishing its authors’ books, including distribution in the world’s largest retail outlets and royalty generation. Page Publishing knows that authors need to be free to create, not mired in logistics like eBook conversion, establishing wholesale accounts, insurance, shipping, taxes, and so on. Page’s accomplished writers and publishing professionals allow authors to leave behind these complex and time-consuming issues and focus on their passion: writing and creating. Learn more at http://www.pagepublishing.com.

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Author D.P. Parsons’ new book “Thoughts from the Mountain, Words from the Heart” is an uplifting collection of poetry celebrating life, love, and his abiding faith


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D.P. Parsons, a married father, grandfather, and North Carolina native who began writing poetry while working in a nursing home at the age of seventeen, has completed his new book “Thoughts from the Mountain, Words from the Heart”: a warmhearted compilation of poems inspired by his strong Christian faith and the strength afforded by his strong relationship with God.

“Thoughts from the Mountain, Words from the Heart” is a book of poems, mostly Christian, inspired by God and the author’s family, friends, and life. These poems are meant to inspire and uplift people as they go along life’s journey. Life can be trying sometimes, so if these poems touch one person’s soul, then it’s worth it all, for God doesn’t place a dream in your heart and not let it happen.

Published by Page Publishing, D.P. Parsons’s engrossing book is an inspiring choice for avid Christian and poetry readers.

Readers who wish to experience this engaging work can purchase “Thoughts from the Mountain, Words from the Heart” at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes Store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or media inquiries, contact Page Publishing at 866-315-2708.

About Page Publishing:

Page Publishing is a traditional, full-service publishing house that handles all the intricacies involved in publishing its authors’ books, including distribution in the world’s largest retail outlets and royalty generation. Page Publishing understands that authors should be free to create, not mired in logistics like eBook conversion, establishing wholesale accounts, insurance, shipping, taxes, and so on. Page’s accomplished writers and publishing professionals allow authors to leave behind these complex and time-consuming issues and focus on their passion: writing and creating. Learn more at http://www.pagepublishing.com.

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A 365-Day Christian Devotional Book” is an uplifting opportunity for personal and spiritual growth


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“In His Presence: A 365-Day Christian Devotional Book”: an inspiring arrangement of thoughtful reflections and relevant scripture. “In His Presence: A 365-Day Christian Devotional Book” is the creation of published author Veronica Lilly, who was born and raised in the Bible Belt South of Alabama, Kentucky, Arkansas, and Tennessee. She has served as a Sunday School teacher, worked in evangelism sharing the good news of Jesus Christ in both local and foreign mission work, and spent the past twenty years in the ministry of intercessory prayer.

Veronica shares, “Writing a 365-day Christian devotional book became a labor of love. I found myself looking forward to what God had to say through me about the chosen scripture for each day. I applied the scripture references after all the devotions were written. My mindset was ‘Prove it.’ I believe the Bible is God’s infallible Word. If God said it, it is true. I spent time talking with God about what to title this book. I started a list of potential titles. I would write one and ask, ‘Lord, is this the title?’ This went on for a few months. The list grew longer. I wanted a title that prepared the reader for a special encounter with God. In His Presence was that title. I knew it the moment it entered my mind. God was faithful. He provided the title for this book. You will find a prayer at the end of each daily devotion thanking, seeking, and reaching out to our Sovereign God.”

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Veronica Lilly’s new book will empower and encourage as readers make time for God in each day.

Veronica offers readers an enjoyable resource for daily reflection and prayer that will be helpful to both new and established believers.

Consumers can purchase “In His Presence: A 365-Day Christian Devotional Book” at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about “In His Presence: A 365-Day Christian Devotional Book,” contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.

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Demonstrating Christian Character Starts With Nine Qualities


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I hope everyone will attain a better understanding of the nine fruit of the Spirit qualities mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23 and be strengthened in the ability to apply these quality traits to their lives

Author Douglas L. Mead encourages believers to demonstrate Christ-like qualities with Going Deeper in the Fruit of the Spirit: Cultivating Godly Character($15.99, paperback, 9781662855580; $7.99, e-book, 9781662855597).

Galatians 5 lists nine qualities described as the fruit of the Spirit that the Christian believer should seek to emulate. Mead provides an in-depth study into these God-like qualities and how we cultivate them in our daily lives.

“I hope everyone will attain a better understanding of the nine fruit of the Spirit qualities mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23 and be strengthened in the ability to apply these quality traits to their lives,” said Mead.

Douglas L. Mead, LMSW, has completed a 40-year career in the social services field, serving 32 years as the CEO of licensed Christian agencies providing foster care, adoption and counseling services. He is also a seasoned professional Christian counselor with a broad understanding of human behavior and interpersonal relationships. He has served as a teacher and presenter in a variety of settings and authored the book Going Deeper with God: Addressing Challenging Issues In Our Relationship With God (2021).

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Xulon Press, a division of Salem Media Group, is the world’s largest Christian self-publisher, with more than 15,000 titles published to date. Going Deeper in the Fruit of the Spirit is available online through xulonpress.com/bookstore, amazon.com, and barnesandnoble.com.

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Author Shares an Enlightening View About Racial Unity and Reconciliation As Noted in Scripture and Historical Facts


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After seeing all the cyclical division in our nation, I felt compelled to help believers become bridge builders for Christ who were equipped to help close the cultural divide.

Author Khori Smith shares a compelling view of the church’s role with healing the nation’s racial issues in Bridges Between US: A Pathway to Unity Through Faith, Empathy & Mutual Understanding ($20.49, paperback, 9781662855092; $31.49, hardcover, 9781662855108; $8.99, e-book, 9781662855115).

According to Smith, many believers hope for racial unity and reconciliation within the walls of the church, in the communities and throughout the world. He explains that people allow fear and misunderstanding to overwhelm and paralyze themselves, sending them running back to safe circles and camps. Acknowledging that the world is in desperate need of a re-frame, except as Smith points out, one without pointed fingers, political rhetoric or taking sides. He believes that now is the ideal time for all to cast aside ideologies and instead, take the side of Christ, to disarm, free, equip and unite all people.

In this book, Smith illustrates God’s unquestionable desire for unity as highlighted in Scripture and also points out some important U.S. and world historical events that shine a light on current culture. More importantly, Smith includes practical solutions and tools to facilitate personal growth and equip churches to move towards authentic unity. He aims to empower the Church to be an agent of positive change and healing to the cyclical, divisive racial issues plaguing the nation. This book is written for those who are open-minded and willing to intently listen to his thought-provoking view.

When asked what inspired the author to write this book, Smith said, “After seeing all the cyclical division in our nation, I felt compelled to help believers become bridge builders for Christ who were equipped to help close the cultural divide.”

Khori Smith is the Teaching Pastor at Grace Fellowship Church in Baltimore County, Maryland. He has the privilege of encouraging and inspiring thousands of people in their faith online and in-person weekly. In this role, he takes relevant, everyday topics and applies spiritual truths in a way that makes them palatable and relatable to the everyday person. Smith is also a Chaplain with the NFL Alumni, acting as a spiritual coach that works directly with retired NFL football players as they transition from the NFL to life after football. He encourages players in “one on one” formats and leads group sessions that inspire retired players to discover and maintain their purpose in life.

Smith received his master’s degree from Howard University in Washington, D.C. His life’s mission is to build bridges between all people, all colors, all cultures and all communities. His greatest desire is to see people walk in oneness and unity, rooted in authentic relationships. Smith also has extensive experience working as a waiter in the hospitality industry and thus is a sought-after amateur foodie and dessert connoisseur. He lives with his supportive wife and two brilliant sons in Timonium, Maryland.

Editor of Smith’s book, Michele Reber, holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Film and Video Production from Pennsylvania State University and an MBA from Johns Hopkins University. She is the Managing Director of Operations at Omega Healthcare Investors, where she performs copy and content editing. Outside of her job, Reber supports family and friends who are brave enough to attempt something so ambitious as publishing a book. When she is not working or editing, Michele enjoys being out in nature spending time with her Creator, especially while hiking or kayaking.

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Xulon Press, a division of Salem Media Group, is the world’s largest Christian self-publisher, with more than 15,000 titles published to date. Bridges Between US: A Pathway to Unity Through Faith, Empathy & Mutual Understanding is available online through xulonpress.com/bookstore, amazon.com, and barnesandnoble.com.

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Gerrit Coetzee’s newly released “Not So Forbidden” is a compelling discussion of lesbianism and scripture


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“Not So Forbidden”: an engaging look into the permissibility and acceptance of same-sex partners for women. “Not So Forbidden” is the creation of published author Gerrit Coetzee.

Coetzee shares, “Not so forbidden.

“What is this hype all about?

“It is about lesbianism not being a sin.”

“It is a bold statement, very bold, and would not be made without proper and thorough counsel.

“It sets out to educate that the prevailing interpretation of Romans 1 in the Bible is incorrect. It is not, never was about inter-female relations, and it is proven within, why it cannot be about the damnation of lesbians.

“The script is set to alter historical believes, setting aside fraudulent teachings. It is tough to get the message across, when there are men and women who blindly refuse to accept an opposing reality.

“Shamingly, ordinary people resist the evidence, but the truth will burst through.

“One woman replied, ‘Gerrit, I am not an atheist, but I did lose faith in Christianity because of this issue. I will study your views, and if you are right, I will return to Christ.’

“Well, time will tell if one soul was won.”

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Gerrit Coetzee’s new book is a challenge to common beliefs related to what God has said about women sharing committed relationships with other women.

Coetzee shares an engaging argument within the pages of this articulate and carefully researched work.

Consumers can purchase “Not So Forbidden” at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about “Not So Forbidden,” contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.

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